Does morning saliva help get rid of pimples?

In the quest for clearer skin, countless remedies and treatments have emerged, some based on scientific research and others on age-old myths.

One such remedy that has piqued curiosity is the use of morning saliva to treat pimples. The idea is that the enzymes and components in saliva could potentially help reduce acne.

But is there any truth to this claim, or is it merely a myth? Let’s explore the science and folklore behind this unusual approach to acne treatment.

The notion that morning saliva can help with acne is rooted in a mix of anecdotal evidence and traditional beliefs. Proponents of this method argue that saliva contains enzymes, antibodies, and other substances that might have antibacterial or anti-inflammatory properties. They suggest that applying saliva directly to the skin could reduce inflammation, combat bacteria, and promote healing, thus improving acne.

Saliva is a complex fluid produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. It contains water, electrolytes, mucus, enzymes (such as amylase and lysozyme), and various proteins. Here’s a brief look at some key components:

Enzymes: Saliva contains enzymes like amylase, which helps break down carbohydrates in the food we eat, and lysozyme, which has antibacterial properties.

Antibodies: Saliva includes immunoglobulins, particularly IgA, which play a role in the immune response by preventing pathogens from entering the body.

Mucus and proteins: These components help lubricate the mouth and aid in digestion.
While these components contribute to the digestive process and oral health, their effectiveness when applied topically to the skin is less clear.

Acne is primarily caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacterial infection, specifically by Propionibacterium acnes (now known as Cutibacterium acnes). Effective acne treatments often target these factors by:

• Reducing oil production
• Unclogging pores
• Eliminating acne-causing bacteria
• Reducing inflammation

Traditional treatments for acne include topical medications such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids, which are specifically designed to address these issues. Antibacterial properties are a common feature of many acne treatments, but whether saliva can replicate these effects is a different question.

Antibacterial properties: While saliva contains lysozyme, an enzyme with antibacterial properties, its concentration in saliva is relatively low compared to the concentrated antibacterial agents found in commercial acne treatments. The effectiveness of lysozyme in treating acne when applied topically remains unproven in scientific studies.

Inflammation reduction: Some of the proteins in saliva might have anti-inflammatory effects, but again, the evidence is insufficient to support their efficacy in treating acne. Acne inflammation typically requires more potent anti-inflammatory agents.

Pore clogging: Applying saliva to the skin could potentially clog pores rather than unclog them, especially if it contains any residual food particles or bacteria from the mouth. This could exacerbate acne rather than alleviate it.

Using morning saliva as a treatment for acne carries potential risks:

Hygiene concerns: Saliva can contain bacteria and other pathogens from the mouth, which might not be suitable for application on the face. Introducing these microorganisms to the skin could lead to further skin issues.

Allergic reactions: Some individuals might experience allergic reactions or skin sensitivities when applying substances not intended for topical use.

Lack of evidence: The lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of saliva in treating acne means there are no established guidelines or safety recommendations for its use.